Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method for changing over to a second firmware version in an electrical control unit for a drive system, wherein the electrical control unit is suitable for executing an existing application program for operating the drive system, and a different, first firmware version is in operation in the electrical control unit, the method comprising the steps of: a) checking the existing application program for compatibility with the second firmware version by way of a script; and b) in a case where the existing application program is compatible with the second firmware version, changing over from the first firmware version to the second firmware version in the electrical control unit, wherein the second firmware version then occupies an intermediate position between hardware of the electrical control unit and the existing application program, wherein the method further comprises the steps of: changing over to the script, in one script version that has been assigned to the second firmware version, from a different script in a different script version that has been assigned to the first firmware version, and wherein step a) carries out the checking by use of the script in the one script version, wherein the script is in a script version corresponding to the second firmware version or higher, and wherein the script is designed to read out the application program itself, at least partially, and on the basis thereof to check the compatibility.
2. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein in step a), the script is executed in the electrical control unit.
A method for executing scripts in an electrical control unit (ECU) addresses the challenge of securely and efficiently running scripts within embedded systems. The method involves executing a script in the ECU, where the script is designed to perform specific tasks such as monitoring, diagnostics, or control functions. The script execution is managed to ensure compatibility with the ECU's hardware and software constraints, including memory limitations and real-time processing requirements. The method may also include steps for validating the script before execution, ensuring it meets security and operational criteria. This approach enhances the flexibility and functionality of ECUs by enabling dynamic script-based operations without compromising system stability or performance. The method is particularly useful in automotive and industrial applications where ECUs require adaptable control logic.
3. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the second firmware version and the first firmware version are different from one another in one or more of: (i) a number of partitions, (ii) a size of one of the number of partitions, (iii) a right of access of one of the number of partitions, and (iv) a content of one of the number of partitions.
4. The method as claimed in claim 1 , further comprising the step of: providing one packet version, said one packet version exhibiting the script and the second firmware version, wherein step a) carries out the checking by use of the provided script.
This invention relates to methods for checking firmware versions in electronic devices, specifically addressing the problem of verifying the correct installation or presence of a particular firmware version. The method involves a step where a script is provided. This script is designed to interact with or analyze the device's firmware. The method further includes a checking step. This checking step utilizes the provided script to perform an evaluation. This evaluation is specifically aimed at determining the presence or characteristics of a particular firmware version. The script facilitates this verification by exhibiting or being associated with the second firmware version. This allows for a robust and script-driven check to confirm the firmware's status.
5. The method as claimed in claim 4 , further comprising the step of: transferring the one packet version to the electrical control unit, wherein step a) carries out the checking by use of the transferred script.
6. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein step a) further comprises checking the electrical control unit for compatibility with the second firmware version by way of the script, and wherein step b) further comprises, in a case where the electrical control unit is compatible with the second firmware version, changing over from the first firmware version to the second firmware version in the electrical control unit.
7. The method as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the electrical control unit is a frequency converter, a servo converter, a motion controller or a visu controller.
This invention relates to industrial automation systems, specifically methods for controlling electrical devices in manufacturing or process automation. The core problem addressed is the need for flexible and efficient control of electrical devices, such as motors, actuators, or sensors, in automated systems. The invention provides a method for controlling an electrical device using an electrical control unit that dynamically adjusts operational parameters to optimize performance, energy efficiency, or precision. The electrical control unit can be a frequency converter, servo converter, motion controller, or vision controller. A frequency converter regulates the speed and torque of AC motors by varying the frequency and voltage of the power supply. A servo converter provides precise control of servo motors, enabling high-accuracy positioning and motion. A motion controller coordinates multiple axes of movement, ensuring synchronized operation in robotic or automated machinery. A vision controller processes visual data to guide automated systems, such as in quality inspection or robotic assembly. The method involves the control unit receiving input signals, such as sensor data or user commands, and processing these signals to generate control outputs that adjust the electrical device's operation. The control unit may also incorporate feedback mechanisms to refine its commands in real time. This approach enhances system adaptability, reducing downtime and improving efficiency in industrial applications. The invention is particularly useful in environments requiring precise motion control, energy optimization, or automated visual guidance.
8. An apparatus, comprising: an electrical control unit for a drive system, the electrical control unit being configured to execute an existing application program for operating the drive system, wherein a different first firmware version is in operation in the electrical control unit, wherein the electrical control unit is operatively configured to execute a changing over to a second firmware version by: a) checking the existing application program for compatibility with the second firmware version by way of a script; and b) in a case where the existing application program is compatible with the second firmware version, changing over from the different first firmware version to the second firmware version in the electrical control unit, wherein the second firmware version then occupies an intermediate position between hardware of the electrical control unit and the existing application program, wherein the electrical control unit is further operatively configured to: change over to the script, in one script version that has been assigned to the second firmware version, from a different script in a different script version that has been assigned to the first firmware version, and wherein the checking is carried out by use of the script in the one script version, wherein the script is in a script version corresponding to the second firmware version or higher, and wherein the script is designed to read out the application program itself, at least partially, and on the basis thereof to check the compatibility.
9. A drive system, comprising: an electrical control unit for a drive system, the electrical control unit being configured to execute an existing application program for operating the drive system, wherein a different first firmware version is in operation in the electrical control unit; and an electric motor actuator, the electrical control unit being assigned to the actuator for control purposes, wherein the electrical control unit is operatively configured to execute a changing over to a second firmware version by: a) checking the existing application program for compatibility with the second firmware version by way of a script; and b) in a case where the existing application program is compatible with the second firmware version, changing over from the first firmware version to the second firmware version in the electrical control unit, wherein the second firmware version then occupies an intermediate position between hardware of the electrical control unit and the existing application program, wherein the electrical control unit is further operatively configured to: change over to the script, in one script version that has been assigned to the second firmware version, from a different script in a different script version that has been assigned to the first firmware version, and wherein the checking is carried out by use of the script in the one script version, wherein the script is in a script version corresponding to the second firmware version or higher, and wherein the script is designed to read out the application program itself, at least partially, and on the basis thereof to check the compatibility.
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March 16, 2021
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